SERVICE
Apply for a temporary permit to host a body art event
Get a temporary permit to host a tattoo, body piercing, and permanent cosmetics fair or festival.
What to know
Cost
Check fee schedule for the application fee
Permits you need for a special event
You need a permit to operate a body art booth or host a special event. If you are not currently licensed to perform body art in San Francisco, you will also need a temporary permit to practice.
What to do
California Health and Safety Code Article 7 and San Francisco Health Code Article 40 require permits for body art performed at special events such as fairs or festivals. If you are hosting an event with body art, learn more about health and safety requirements.
2. Include a copy of your practitioner's license
If you do not have a current San Francisco Tattoo Practitioner License, submit an application for a temporary permit for the event.
3. Collect practitioner information
For each body art practitioner, provide their:
- Full name
- Registration number so we can confirm they have a license to practice in San Francisco
If they do not have a current San Francisco Tattoo Practitioner License, submit an application for a temporary permit for each practitioner.
4. Gather additional documents
- Tattoo Consent Form with your business name and address on it
- Tattoo After Care Instructions
- Exposure Control Plan
- A floor plan or layout for existing tattoo establishments. This can be drawn by hand.
5. Pay the application fee
Write a check for the application fee payable to the SF Department of Public Health.
6. Submit your application
Deliver your materials in person or by mail to:
49 South Van Ness Ave., Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103
Get directions
Get help
Make a complaint
If you would like to make a complaint about a tattoo, body piercing or permanent cosmetic business or practitioner, call 311.
Partner agencies
What to know
Cost
Check fee schedule for the application fee
Permits you need for a special event
You need a permit to operate a body art booth or host a special event. If you are not currently licensed to perform body art in San Francisco, you will also need a temporary permit to practice.
What to do
California Health and Safety Code Article 7 and San Francisco Health Code Article 40 require permits for body art performed at special events such as fairs or festivals. If you are hosting an event with body art, learn more about health and safety requirements.
2. Include a copy of your practitioner's license
If you do not have a current San Francisco Tattoo Practitioner License, submit an application for a temporary permit for the event.
3. Collect practitioner information
For each body art practitioner, provide their:
- Full name
- Registration number so we can confirm they have a license to practice in San Francisco
If they do not have a current San Francisco Tattoo Practitioner License, submit an application for a temporary permit for each practitioner.
4. Gather additional documents
- Tattoo Consent Form with your business name and address on it
- Tattoo After Care Instructions
- Exposure Control Plan
- A floor plan or layout for existing tattoo establishments. This can be drawn by hand.
5. Pay the application fee
Write a check for the application fee payable to the SF Department of Public Health.
6. Submit your application
Deliver your materials in person or by mail to:
49 South Van Ness Ave., Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103
Get directions
Get help
Make a complaint
If you would like to make a complaint about a tattoo, body piercing or permanent cosmetic business or practitioner, call 311.